Oakland Police Department investigators have identified Billy C. Shaffer Jr. of Antioch as responsible for the October 1, 2014 homicide of Connie M. Sowels III, 27, of Oakland that occurred in the 1100 block of Clay Street. Investigators credit a citizen who provided a tip that led to the identification and ultimately the arrest of Shaffer. On Monday, October 13, 2014, Alameda County Sheriff's deputies located wanted person Shaffer in San Leandro and arrested him on the outstanding warrant. Thanks to the community member whose tip was key to the quick identification of the suspect and resolution of this case. Community members’ anonymous tips help us solve cases.
Nixle Tip Watch allows ANONYMOUS tipsters to send OPD a tip three ways:
1. Text TIP OAKLANDPD to 888777 from your cell phone followed by your tip
2. Call our toll-free tip hotline at 855-TIPS-247 (855-847-7247)
3. Submit a tip by web form - see the option at the bottom of OPD's Nixle messages or visit http://nixle.us/tip/oakland-police-department-ca/ to complete and send.
Anonymous Tipping allows residents to proactively connect with the Oakland Police Department by submitting anonymous tips via web form and text message. Additionally, with the issuance of a tipping passcode to tipsters, we can initiate a two-way, anonymous communication to help gather more information.
Make an ANONYMOUS TIP by phone:
• Homicide 510-238-3821
• Illegal Drugs 510-238-3784
• Illegal Firearm or Firearm Offense 510-535-4867
• Sexual Assault Hotline 510-637-0298
For more information, please contact the Media Relations Office at 510-238-7230 or [email protected].
Visit Nixle.com to receive Oakland Police Department alerts, advisories and community messages, or follow OPD on Twitter, @oaklandpoliceca.
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